Applying to universities in Canada can be an exciting journey, but it can also be expensive—especially when you’re applying to multiple schools. Most Canadian universities charge non-refundable application fees that range from CAD $50 to $150. These fees can quickly add up for international and domestic students alike.
However, the good news is that some Canadian universities offer application fee waivers under certain conditions. These waivers can help reduce the financial burden on students and make higher education more accessible.
In this post, I’ll highlight 10 Canadian universities that offer application fee waivers, explain the eligibility criteria, and give you tips on how to apply.
🎓 What Is an Application Fee Waiver?
An application fee waiver means you don’t have to pay the standard fee when submitting your application to a university. These waivers are often offered to:
- Students from low-income backgrounds
- Refugees or displaced persons
- Students applying through special partnerships or programs
- Indigenous applicants
- Students affected by natural disasters or political crises
- Students applying during specific promotional periods
✅ 10 Canadian Universities with Application Fee Waivers
1. University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Fee Waiver Available For: Low-income domestic applicants, international applicants from specific countries, and applicants through certain access programs.
- How to Apply: UBC offers a need-based fee waiver for Canadian citizens and permanent residents applying through the UBC Online Application System. For international students, the waiver is rare but may be granted under special humanitarian or partnership-based conditions.
- Link: https://you.ubc.ca
2. University of Alberta
- Fee Waiver Available For: Students from low-income backgrounds and those affected by conflict or crisis (e.g., war or natural disaster).
- How to Apply: Email the admissions office with your request and documentation showing financial hardship.
- Link: https://www.ualberta.ca
3. University of Calgary
- Fee Waiver Available For: International students from certain developing countries and Canadian students who can demonstrate financial hardship.
- How to Apply: Contact the university’s admissions office before submitting your application.
- Link: https://www.ucalgary.ca
4. University of Toronto (Only for Certain Programs)
- Fee Waiver Available For: Applicants via partner organizations such as QuestBridge and some refugee-focused programs.
- How to Apply: Through the affiliated program or by contacting the specific faculty or college.
- Link: https://future.utoronto.ca
5. McGill University
- Fee Waiver Available For: Applicants facing financial hardship, particularly from low-income countries or conflict-affected regions.
- How to Apply: Email the university’s Enrolment Services explaining your situation and include proof of financial hardship.
- Link: https://www.mcgill.ca
6. Dalhousie University
- Fee Waiver Available For: Indigenous students and applicants from low-income families.
- How to Apply: Indigenous applicants can contact the Indigenous Student Centre. Others must request via admissions support with proof of financial need.
- Link: https://www.dal.ca
7. University of Winnipeg
- Fee Waiver Available For: International students through select scholarship programs and some crisis-afflicted applicants.
- How to Apply: Mention fee waiver needs while applying through the online portal or email International Admissions.
- Link: https://www.uwinnipeg.ca
8. Brandon University
- Fee Waiver Available For: Students applying through select pathways and during promotional periods.
- How to Apply: Keep an eye on their admissions page for “no application fee” campaigns, especially during open houses.
- Link: https://www.brandonu.ca
9. University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
- Fee Waiver Available For: Students from specific countries, refugees, and low-income applicants.
- How to Apply: Contact the International Office or the Registrar’s Office with a written request and documentation.
- Link: https://www.upei.ca
10. Thompson Rivers University (TRU)
- Fee Waiver Available For: Refugees and displaced persons, applicants during promotional events.
- How to Apply: Submit a written request or apply during “Apply for Free” campaigns held periodically.
- Link: https://www.tru.ca
💡 Tips for Applying with a Fee Waiver
- Plan Ahead: Research well in advance and prepare documentation like tax returns, income statements, or refugee status documents.
- Write a Formal Request: A short, polite email explaining your need for a waiver, along with supporting documents, often goes a long way.
- Monitor University Announcements: Some fee waiver offers are tied to open houses or promotional periods—don’t miss them!
- Apply Through Partnerships: If your high school or organization has a tie-up with a Canadian university, ask about waived fees.
- Look for Scholarships: Some universities waive fees automatically if you’re applying for certain scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
In this section, I will provide you with FAQs and answers on “Canadian Universities with Application Fee Waivers”. Keep on reading friend.
1. Do all Canadian universities offer application fee waivers?
No, not all Canadian universities offer application fee waivers. However, some do provide waivers under specific conditions, such as financial hardship, refugee status, or partnerships with certain organizations. It’s important to contact the university directly to find out their policy.
2. Who is eligible for an application fee waiver in Canada?
Answer: Eligibility varies by institution but often includes:
- Students from low-income families
- Refugees or asylum seekers
- Indigenous applicants
- Applicants from developing countries or conflict-affected regions
- Students applying through scholarship programs or educational partnerships
3. How can I request an application fee waiver?
Typically, you need to:
- Contact the university’s admissions or international office
- Explain your financial situation or eligibility
- Provide supporting documents (e.g., income proof, refugee status, or recommendation from a school counselor)
4. Can international students get an application fee waiver in Canada?
Yes, some universities do offer application fee waivers to international students, especially those from developing countries, crisis zones, or applying through recognized scholarship or aid programs.
5. Is it guaranteed that I will get the fee waiver if I request one?
No, it’s not guaranteed. The decision is made by the university and depends on your eligibility, supporting documents, and the institution’s policy at that time.
6. Do fee waivers affect my chances of admission?
Absolutely not. Requesting or receiving a fee waiver does not negatively affect your application. Admission decisions are made independently of your ability to pay the application fee.
7. Are there deadlines for fee waiver requests?
Yes, most universities require that you request a waiver before you submit your application. Be sure to start the process early and check each university’s specific deadline.
8. What documents are usually required to get a fee waiver?
Common documents include:
- Proof of income or a letter of financial hardship
- Government-issued financial aid letters
- Refugee/asylum status papers
- Recommendation letters from school counselors or NGOs
9. Do Canadian colleges (not just universities) offer fee waivers too?
Some colleges in Canada may offer fee waivers, especially for local or Indigenous applicants, but it’s less common than at universities. Always check with the admissions department of the college you’re interested in.
10. Where can I find the most up-to-date information on fee waivers?
Visit the official website of the university you’re interested in and check their undergraduate or graduate admissions page. You can also email or call the admissions office directly for confirmation.